On October 22 and 23, the 55th advanced training course “Sicher mit Holz - Immer höher, immer weiter, immer besser...” (Safe with wood - ever higher, ever further, ever better...) took place at the Thurgauerhof congress center in Weinfelden. “ organized by S-WIN. The event attracted over 200 participants, including many young professionals, and offered a comprehensive immersion in the world of timber construction, with a particular focus on innovation and safety in the use of this versatile and sustainable material.
Day 1: Insights into the diversity of timber construction
With ten presentations, the first day offered a comprehensive insight into the many facets of timber construction. Numerous experts highlighted different aspects of the industry. For example, Yves Schihin (Oxid Architektur GmbH) showed the fascinating connection between timber construction and architecture and illustrated how aesthetics and functionality merge in impressive projects. Konrad Merz (merz kley partner GmbH) provided insights into the working world in wood, with a focus on the planning and construction of modern office buildings made of wood, and presented various innovative solutions for this. Franz Lenherr (Roth Burgdorf AG) presented the latest innovations in the production of timber components and, using the example of huge, 30-meter-long wooden beams that required special transport, highlighted new perspectives for planning and construction. In the afternoon, the course delved into the second generation of Eurocode 5, with experts such as Rene Steiger (Empa), Pedro Palma (Empa) and Robert Jockwer (TU Dresden, Institute for Steel and Timber Construction) explaining the innovations in the areas of structural design, fire protection and the execution of timber constructions.
Day two: inspiration and knowledge transfer in timber construction
The second day offered the participants a wealth of inspiration and knowledge transfer. Some examples from the numerous presentations highlighting innovative projects and important standards are given here: Michael Stirnimann (Dr. Lüchinger+Meyer Bauingenieure AG) presented the Tilia Tower in Prilly, an ambitious project that impressively demonstrates the possibilities of timber construction in terms of height and design. Ivan Brühwiler (B3 Kolb AG) presented the Zwhatt H1, an innovative high-rise building made of beech glulam. Andreas Burgherr and Alois Räber (Timbatec Holzbauingenieure Schweiz AG) talked about the challenges and opportunities in the planning and realization of highly resilient timber trusses in Switzerland, such as bridges or wide-span roof constructions. Katharina Müller (Lignolution GmbH) presented her innovative development for timber construction: HBV-Decken with micro-grooves. These new ceilings make it possible to reduce the number of screws required due to the special surface structure, thus reducing material consumption and simplifying assembly. These are just a few examples of the wide range of topics covered during the course. Download the conference proceedings here!
A successful network for a sustainable future
The 55th “Sicher mit Holz” course confirmed S-WIN's role as a reference point for the timber construction industry in Switzerland. The event promoted the exchange of knowledge and the creation of new synergies between the various players in the industry, supporting a collaborative approach to innovation. The high number of participants and the enthusiasm of those in attendance are a testament to the vitality of a constantly growing industry that is looking to the future with confidence and determination.
A big thank you to everyone who made this event possible!
S-WIN would like to express its sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the 55th course “Sicher mit Holz”: the speakers who shared their experience and knowledge; the exhibitors who presented their innovative solutions; the experts who provided valuable contributions to the discussion; the catering team who spoiled us with culinary delights; and, of course, all the participants for their interest and active involvement. Thanks to you, the future of timber construction is looking increasingly bright and sustainable!
The advanced training course in Weinfelden was realized with the support of the Federal Office for the Environment, FOEN Wood Action Plan.